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Research information:

Our research addresses the role of the serotonin and dopamine systems in Depression, Anxiety, and Schizophrenia. In particular, our research focuses on genetic and environmental factors (such as early or late life stress) that determine the activity of these systems and the implications for brain function and behavior. We have identified specific gene polymorphisms, gene regulators and epigenetic alterations caused by stress that increase the risk of mental illness and affect the response to antidepressant treatments. Our current research is to develop animal models of these genetic alterations to identify their role in susceptibility to mental illness and as models to develop new treatments to attenuate the effects of stress, anxiety, or depression.

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Promoting recovery of function following stroke by enhancing brain neuroplasticity (e.g. growth of new connections, new neurons, etc.). I study how exercise, stem cells, rehabilitation can be used to improve brain reorganization and repair after stroke or in age related forms of dementia (ex. vascular cognitive impairment). Other work focuses include how unhealthy diets damage blood vessels in the brain and impair learning and memory ability.

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E-mail, Office Telephone

Research information:

Our first line of work focuses around the brain circuits involved in Depression. In particular, Our research focuses on determining how stressors influence brain functioning and behavior. We are attempting to identify factors (genetic, neurochemical & psychosocial) that render individuals vulnerable to mental illness and those factors that impart resiliency. Our second line of research focuses on identifying plant derived medications that may attenuate stress, anxiety and depressive responses.